The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, announces the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, will open at 12:01 a.m. Monday, marking the beginning of the 2013 Great Lakes shipping season. To accommodate visitors, the observation deck and park will be open from 11 p.m. tonight until 1 a.m. Monday.

“Navigation is the primary mission of the Detroit District and the Soo Locks is the linchpin of the Great Lakes Navigation System,” said Lt. Col. Robert J. Ells, district engineer. “We invite the public to come and enjoy the impressive sight of large freighters passing through the locks. The view from the park is excellent, and the Soo Locks Visitor Center helps enhance the overall experience.”

The locks were closed for the winter Jan. 15 and underwent routine annual repairs and maintenance during the shutdown.

On Monday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be an open house featuring slide shows and refreshments at the Soo Locks Visitor Center. Admission is free.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, maintains a navigation system that includes 94 harbors and the Great Lakes connecting channels that join lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, St. Clair and Erie.